Fans of atmospheric metroidvania games have a new world to explore. Publisher CRITICAL REFLEX (Mouthwashing, No, I’m not a human) and developer Ichthys have officially revealed that Being and Becoming will launch in 2026, alongside a new open Steam playtest available now.
Being and Becoming is a story-driven, pixel-art metroidvania that blends nostalgic visuals with modern combat and exploration. Players step into the role of a would-be martyr, rescued from a watery grave and drawn into the mysterious Collective Dream. Your mission is to defy prophecy, challenge the tyranny of The Word, and free other dreamers from corruption.
The Steam playtest lets players experience the game’s introduction, explore multiple interconnected locations, wield different weapons and abilities, meet memorable NPCs, and battle two epic bosses plus a wide range of enemies. Exploration is rewarded with powerful upgrades once wielded by fallen divers, while combat encourages creative combinations and precise execution.
With its gorgeous handcrafted pixel art, fully voiced characters, and a dynamic atmospheric soundtrack that reacts to gameplay, Being and Becoming promises a deeply immersive experience.
Play the Being and Becoming Steam playtest now and wishlist the game today ahead of its 2026 release.
